Wild Bright Hope: The Big Church Read Lent Book 2025  

Twelve voices each contribute a chapter on hope, to create a 'thought-provoking anthology... a good read across Lent and beyond for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and find hope in a complex world'

Wild Bright Hope: The Big Church Read Lent Book 2025 
By various authors 
SPCK
ISBN: 9780281091003
Reviewed by: Heather Jay 

 
Wild Bright Hope, chosen as the Big Church Read for Lent 2025, is a compelling and thought-provoking anthology that gathers insights from a variety of writers on the theme of hope. This collection is insightful and occasionally challenging, inviting readers to reflect deeply on their own faith journey.

The diverse voices in this book bring a rich tapestry of perspectives, each exploring what gives them hope in an uncertain world. The essays are both insightful and thought provoking, with some passages prompting a hard read as they confront the unsettling truth that Christianity can and has been weaponised and politicised. These moments of discomfort aren’t easy and the writers gently challenge all of us that we have a really important part to play in bringing in the kingdom of God. 

Some of that is seen in the projects talked about and it’s heartening to see where the church has made the difference by meeting people where they are in the way that Jesus taught us to. 

One of the strengths of Wild Bright Hope is its ability to leave the reader with lingering questions and a sense of reflection. The writers do not shy away from the complexities of faith, instead embracing them and encouraging readers to do the same. This book serves as a positive reminder that the journey of faith is not about having all the answers but about taking the walk of faith with God wherever that may take us. Is it easy? No. Is it worth it? Undoubtedly. 

Overall, Wild Bright Hope is a well curated collection that inspires and challenges in equal measure. It is a good read across Lent and beyond for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and find hope in a complex world. This book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on its readers, prompting them to reflect on their own faith and the sources of their hope and where that might take them. 

 

Heather Jay is a communications specialist in the maritime sector working for a global maritime foundation. She is a former BBC and newspaper journalist and has also worked in government communications.

She is director of music at her local church, and occasionally blogs here